The block's 40 tenants were told of the "major fault" with the lift in a Birmingham City Council newsletter dated December 2.

But the authority confirmed it was now back in action after the Mail revealed their plight.

Mary said she was fortunate to have had enough food in her kitchen so that she did not need to go out again during the lift problem.

Beech Hill House, in Field Lane, Bartley Green

“I could have got out but I couldn’t have got back in unless I crawled back up the stairs," she said.

“I learned many years ago about ergonomics.

"We lived in Bournville and were very poor.

"When I was about ten my mother sent me to get three tins of sardines.

"I realised by doing one journey you only wear the boots out once.

“The caretaker came at about 7am and told me the lift was in operation from 8pm last night.”

Mary Goble, 99, had to crawl up the stairs to her flat due to a faulty lift

A council spokeswoman had earlier said: “Contingency plans were drawn up to support vulnerable residents and a letter was hand delivered to each resident making it absolutely clear that staff from the housing team were on hand to assist.

"Phone numbers were provided and we would have been only too happy to help Mrs Goble with her shopping.

“This has been followed up with a further letter today giving a 24/7 mobile number and reiterating that help is on offer. The lift is currently being repaired and we expect work to have finished by close of play tomorrow (Tuesday).

“We would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused to residents whilst we have undertaken these essential repairs and maintenance.”